The aim of the workshop is to encourage an open discussion on the proposals laid out in the Oftel consultative document Developing a telecommunications Ombudsman. As such, we hope that as many representatives of consumer and user groups, operators, service providers, and other providers of communications services can attend.

Developing a telecommunications Ombudsman is available from Oftel's website at www.oftel.gov.uk/publications/consumer/ombu0301.htm. Copies are available to the media from Oftel's Press office on 020 7634 8991 and to the public from the Research and Intelligence Unit on 020 7634 8761. Under the proposals, the new Telecoms Ombudsman, funded by the industry, will provide an independent, fair, and publicly accountable service for consumers, should companies fail to resolve disputes using internal procedures.

The consultation period runs until 15 June. Once the responses have been considered, and in the light of discussions during the workshop, Oftel will issue a statement setting out the proposed timetable and details of the scheme. The aim is to publish the Statement in July and have an Ombudsman up and running by April 2002.

Full details, including programme, will be sent to those expressing an interest in attending.

Please reply by email to Lucy Senett or telephone: 020 7634 8735.